1980 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2010 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2010 Cadillac DTS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 998 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2010 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | 2010 Cadillac DTS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Cadillac |
| Model | Beetle | DTS |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5273 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2936 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 68 L |
